THREE lads have been selected as apprentices with Qinetiq, the defence contractor which manages MoD Shoeburyness.

Martin Edwards, 21, of Lylt Road, Canvey, Tim Robinson, 20, of Rebels Lane, Great Wakering and Lewis Ridgway, 19, Broadlands Avenue, Hockley, beat dozens of applicants to land the jobs.

MOD Shoeburyness is the artillery testing ranges on Foulness Island where they will be taking four-year apprenticeships.